My favourite books and podcasts to inspire, expand and enlighten you

This year, a stack of books often accompanied my gratitude and meditation journals next to my bed. While I’m not the fastest reader on the planet, a handful of carefully chosen books have become ‘references’ throughout my journey – and even more so as I transition into life coaching.

These holidays, if you are looking to indulge in a little downtime with a book or two, then I present in no particular order, my 2015 favourites:

Playing Big – by Tara Mohr

I began reading Tara’s book around the same time I declared that I wanted to transition to coaching women, about 6 months ago. I stumbled upon this gem as I was heading away on a holiday with my husband and it seemed like an appropriate time to shift my mindset and up the ante. In the book, Tara takes you through a series of insights discovered through her own life and work as the founder of the Playing Big leadership program. Each chapter asks you a series of journalling questions which allow you to gain insight into how you can move from playing small to playing big.

The War of Art – by Steven Pressfield

This book sits on the shelves of many inspiring women I follow, and was credited by one of my major girl crushes – Marie Forleo as a go to resource for digging yourself out of a rut.

The book is designed to support creatives with the resistance they face on a day to day basis – after Steven’s own experiences as a writer. However, the theories that come through in each of the mini essays, can be applied to anyone who is looking to pursue a new endeavour or even struggling to form a habit.

Like The Four Agreements, don’t take the size of this book to mean that it is lacking in wisdom. In fact, few words, means you read with care and savour every little message. The latter part of the book moves into Turning Pro, followed by Beyond Resistance. As you dive in further it becomes a little more esoteric in nature and an exploration of ‘why’ we create.

Life and love, creating the dream – by Lisa Messenger

This one I also happened to pick up at the airport after returning home from a holiday earlier this year. Life and Love is one of a series of books by Lisa that include Daring and Disruptive and Money and Mindfulness.

The book is filled with practical insights collected from her own journey and written in such a way that you can’t help but feel like you are getting advice from your best friend. Filled with fun, quirky, raw accounts that are intertwined with gorgeous photos of Lisa and scripted quotes. A great book for the plane, curling up by the fire or lounging by the pool.

The Four Agreements – by don Miguel Ruiz

As far as books go, small in stature it may be, but the message this book provides sure packs a punch. The four ‘agreements’ are based on ancient Toltec wisdom passed down through don Miguel’s family. His belief is that if you choose to live your life by these ‘agreements’, then you will experience personal freedom, happiness and love. Written like a magical story of ancient times, yet relevant to any human living in the modern world.

If reading isn’t your learning jam, the other way I am inspired is through story. This selection of podcast channels are frequently listened to while driving, cooking or working. Again, in no particular order:

Lewis Howes – The School of Greatness

My current favourite is an interview recorded with Alanis Morrisette. Yes, for any 90s child, I am talking about THE Alanis Morrisette – articulate, witty, intelligent and well versed in everything from making art, being a child musician to parenting.

Lucy Bourchier – The Brave Exchange

Two of my favourite interviews include Melissa Ambrosini and Connie Chapman. Beautiful Australian soul sisters full of authentic wisdom for any modern woman. Available through iTunes.

Tim Ferriss – The Four Hour Work Week

If you have read his books, you will love his podcast channel. I have told the world about his recent interview with Jamie Foxx – 2.5hrs of everything you could ever want to know about this powerhouse musician, actor, father and collaborator.

Jonathan Fields and The Good Life Project

His original live recordings of interviews with the likes of Danielle LaPorte, Marie Forleo, Brene Brown and Seth Godin are pure magic.

Get inspired these holidays beauties. I’d love to know in the comments below if you have any favourite books or podcasts worth sharing.

Photo by Bino Storyteller for Unsplash.

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Ruby Marsh

Ruby Marsh is a mentor and the creator of The Unstoppable Woman transformation program. She believes that when a woman is confident in her own skin, she is free to create herself on her own terms. Through her 1:1 work with women and workshops she is supports women to clear their minds and open their hearts.

It’s one of those book and podcast channels that are full of tips and tricks to work smarter and generally treat life as one big experiment! He has some of the most fascinating people on his podcast too. Well worth a listen!

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